OTS Announces Transformative Partnership with Farming with Friends

Old Trail School announced today a new partnership that will enhance one of the school’s most unique resources—its on-campus, 11-acre farm. Through a collaboration with Farming with Friends, a nonprofit organization dedicated to regenerative agriculture and meaningful employment for individuals with disabilities, the Old Trail School Farm will continue to flourish as a dynamic space for hands-on learning and environmental stewardship.

This partnership will offer mutual benefits for both organizations, allowing Old Trail students to deepen their connection to the natural world through innovative, cross-disciplinary programming while supporting Farming with Friends in its mission to create sustainable food systems and meaningful work opportunities.

With Farming with Friends managing the farm’s daily operations, Old Trail students will have even greater opportunities to engage in experiential learning across multiple disciplines. The farm serves as a living classroom where students can observe natural cycles, develop problem-solving skills, and gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of our world through science, ecology, visual arts, and social studies.

“At Farming with Friends, we believe relationship, partnership, and collaboration are the secret sauce for deep and meaningful impact, and with that in mind, we’re excited to be partnering with Old Trail School,” said Tristan Griffin, the organization’s executive director. “Both organizations are deeply committed to making the world a better place—one through first-class education of our youth and the other through first-class food production and employment of people with disabilities. We believe there is a great opportunity through collaboration for both organizations to be lifted to higher levels as a result of this partnership.”

Griffin also emphasized the practical advantages of the partnership. “We love the people at Old Trail, and the farm facilities are perfect for our needs. We believe deeply in the work Old Trail is engaging in and consider it a privilege to be included. Lastly, we look forward to stewarding the property well and serving the community alongside Old Trail for many years to come. Our heartfelt thanks are extended to the Old Trail community.”

Old Trail is eager to embark on this next chapter in the life of its farm and looks forward to the many ways this partnership will enrich the school’s curriculum and community. By working together, Old Trail and Farming with Friends will continue to provide students with hands-on experiences that foster curiosity, responsibility, and a deeper connection to the natural world and each other.